Mental Illness Awareness

What comes to mind when you think of October? Could it be Halloween? Or how about the many walks and fundraisers that happen all month long ? October is a month full of many activities all month long. Most are familiar with October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month or even Domestic Violence Awareness Month. However, some are unaware about Mental Illness Awareness Week.

The first week of October (2-8) is mental illness awareness week and has been for some time. However, many individuals still have these daunting questions like the following:

What is this awareness about?

What are the signs and symptoms?

Is there a cure?

What is a Mental Illness?

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, “A mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling or mood. Such conditions may affect someone’s ability to relate to others and function each day.”

There are many different types of mental illnesses that affect each individual in many forms. No matter what age, gender or status you have, you can suffer from any type of mental illness. Some of the most common types are:

Depression

Bipolar Disorder

Personality Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Eating Disorder

What are signs and symptoms of mental illnesses?

It certainly depends on age and the type of disorder you may have. However, common signs and symptoms in young adolescents and adults for most disorders, according to the Mental Health America, include the following:

Substance abuse

Increasing fear and anxiety

Growing inability to cope with daily activities

Anger outbursts

For children, the signs and symptoms range differently. According to the Mental Health America, the signs are the following:

Hyperactivity

Persistent disobedience

Changes in school performance

Changes in sleep or eating habits

There are treatments for mental disorders. For example there are forms of medication and therapy. Each form is geared toward helping you become better. Learn more about treatments and solutions here.

Be a part of this amazing week and spread the word about these hidden disorders. You don’t have to live with this alone nor be ashamed of having it. We encourage everyone to speak out! We are here to help in every step of the way! Spread the word with your friends, family, neighbors, etc. Don’t stay silent! Stay informed by reading up on these disorders and reach out to your loved ones. Together we are stronger and can build each other up. Always remember two is better than one.

At Emed, our goal is to help you achieve a healthy lifestyle at an affordable price. If you would like to speak to your doctor or have any questions concerning any type of mental illness, please click here or call 904-513-3240.